Finding A question about stickers on slabs in the Wild: A Cherry Picker’s Guide

Introduction: The Hidden Dangers in Coin Storage

You don’t always need a dealer to find this. Here is what to look for when searching through circulation or bulk lots. As roll hunters and cherry pickers know, the thrill of discovery often comes from unexpected places – estate sales, forgotten collections, and even the coins passing through our hands daily. But what about the storage methods we use to protect our finds? This article explores the surprising ways common storage materials can damage your valuable coins and slabs.

The Chemistry of Coin Damage

When examining coins from circulation or bulk lots, it’s essential to understand that damage doesn’t always come from obvious sources. The forum discussion reveals a critical lesson about chemical reactions between storage materials and coin holders. While rubber bands might seem like a convenient way to bundle coins, they can contain chemicals that leach through plastic holders and damage the coins inside.

Rubber Band Risks

Many collectors have witnessed the damage caused by rubber bands on coin holders. The chemicals in rubber can bleed through plastic and leave dull streaks across coins. This chemical reaction is similar to what happens when coins are stored in PVC-containing flips – the plasticizer leaches out and creates a green, slimy residue that etches the coin’s surface.

Real-World Damage Examples

The most compelling evidence comes from a collector who stored PCGS slabs in a blueprint cabinet lined with dimpled toolbox liner. This seemingly innocuous storage solution caused significant damage to the slabs. The liner etched into the plastic wherever the dimpled surface made contact, creating visible marks that required considerable effort to polish out.

Why PCGS Slabs Were Affected

The damage was particularly severe on PCGS slabs because of their unique design. PCGS holders have a bulbous, coin-capsule-like viewing area that made more contact with the liner’s dimpled surface. In contrast, ATS holders with their smooth faces were less affected, though still not immune to potential damage if they had contacted the liner.

Understanding the Chemistry

The damage isn’t necessarily caused by rubber itself, but rather by solvents or volatile organic compounds present in storage materials. These chemicals can remain in products even when they’re brand new from the store. The manufacturing process can leave residual chemicals that, when given time and the right conditions, will react with plastic holders and potentially reach the coins inside.

Time Factor

One of the most alarming aspects of this damage is how quickly it can occur. In the case of the toolbox liner, the etching only took weeks rather than months or years. This rapid damage timeline means that even short-term storage solutions can have devastating effects on your collection.

Safe Storage Practices for Roll Hunters

For those who frequent estate sales, bulk lots, and circulation finds, proper storage becomes even more critical. Here are some guidelines to protect your discoveries:

Recommended Storage Methods

• Use acid-free, PVC-free flips for individual coins
• Store slabs in inert materials like Mylar or specially designed coin storage boxes
• Avoid rubber bands entirely, even for temporary storage
• Keep coins in a stable environment with controlled temperature and humidity
• Use soft, non-reactive materials for drawer lining

The Dealer Perspective

It’s worth noting that many dealers use rubber bands on slabs without visible damage. This doesn’t mean the practice is safe – it may simply mean the damage hasn’t manifested yet, or that the specific rubber bands and slabs involved don’t react chemically. The risk, however, remains present.

Conclusion: Protecting Your Cherry Picks

The world of roll hunting and cherry picking is filled with excitement and potential profit, but it also requires knowledge about proper coin care. The damage caused by common storage materials serves as a reminder that even experienced collectors can make mistakes. By understanding the chemistry behind coin storage and following safe practices, you can ensure that your circulation finds and estate sale treasures remain in the best possible condition for years to come.

Remember: the coins you discover today could become valuable collectibles tomorrow. Protect your investments by avoiding rubber bands, being cautious with storage materials, and always prioritizing the long-term preservation of your collection. Your future self – and potential buyers – will thank you for the extra care you take now.

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